Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott made an abrupt exit in their season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
He injured his right thumb after linebacker Shaq Barrett came for him.
His condition required surgery, and the initial timetable for his return was six to eight weeks.
However, NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero said he could return in four to six weeks.
Therefore, the former Mississippi State standout could suit up again in either Week 6 against the Philadelphia Eagles or Week 8 versus the Chicago Bears.
But Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones thinks he could come back even earlier.
Jerry Jones on @1053thefan said Dak Prescott (thumb) won’t be going on injured reserve. He thinks Prescott could play within the next four games
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) September 13, 2022
The Athletic’s Jon Machota tweeted, “Jerry Jones on @1053thefan said Dak Prescott (thumb) won’t be going on injured reserve. He thinks Prescott could play within the next four games.”
A player that goes on injured reserve will miss up to four weeks in action.
But Jones’ declaration means that Prescott may come back earlier than expected.
If his words are true, the Cowboys can continue their quest for a playoff spot.
It will also shorten Cooper Rush‘s time as the starter.
Prescott’s Injury History
He suffered a season-ending ankle injury that required surgery in Week 5 of the 2020 season against the New York Giants.
It was the first time in his career that he did not play the entire regular season.
Andy Dalton took over as he was carted off the field.
He came back the following season and led the Cowboys to a playoff berth.
Prescott might not be ready in Week 2 when the Cowboys face the Cincinnati Bengals at home.
But according to Jones, it might not be long before he wears pads and a helmet again.
After all, Russell Wilson also came back sooner than expected last season after suffering a finger injury.
NEXT: NFL Insider Shares A Promising New Dak Prescott Timeline
